Photo: Gagan Sharma; Knotting Bells by Rajesh & Sachin. Planners: KKings Weddings & Events; Anand Vivaah.
Renowned destination wedding photographer Gagan Sharma shares his journey of over 16 years, recording love stories across the globe. In this interview, Gagan discusses the challenges and rewards of his profession, his favorite shooting locations, and the elements that make each wedding unique and memorable.
Photo: Gagan Sharma; Knotting Bells by Rajesh & Sachin. Planners: KKings Weddings & Events; Anand Vivaah.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam (HBZVN): Gagan, welcome to Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam. You are one of the world’s popular destination photographers. Tell us about your journey to success.
GAGAN SHARMA: I find myself humbled and grateful for the incredible journey I’ve had, spanning over 16 years, as a destination wedding photographer. Living just outside of London, I’ve been amazed by the love and support from couples worldwide, which motivates my commitment to creating beautiful and engaging photos.
London, my creative haven and home, has undoubtedly influenced my artistic vision. However, what truly defines my work is the ability to seamlessly weave together the diverse cultural landscapes of the destinations I’ve been fortunate enough to explore. This blend of local charm and global allure has become a signature element of my photography.
The journey began with a passion for photography and an innate desire to tell stories through images. Over the years, my reputation has grown, and I’ve been honored with the title of a world-class destination wedding photographer. From the historic landmarks of European cities to the sun-drenched beaches of tropical paradises, I’ve been privileged to witness and document love stories in the most enchanting settings.
What sets my work apart is my commitment to forming a genuine connection with each couple. Understanding their unique love story allows me to capture not just moments but emotions that resonate with viewers. This personalized approach, coupled with a keen eye for detail, has formed the bedrock of my success and earned me a clientele that appreciates the sincerity and passion infused into every photograph.
As I continue to traverse the globe, I am continuously inspired by the diverse tales of love that unfold before my lens. The support and appreciation from the couples I’ve had the honor of photographing fuel my passion, reminding me that, in this visual journey through love, the best is yet to come.
Photo: Gagan Sharma; Knotting Bells by Rajesh & Sachin. Planners: KKings Weddings & Events; Anand Vivaah.
HBZVN: What are the most challenging and interesting aspects of your profession??
GAGAN SHARMA: I think the hardest element in my profession is the collective effort required to bring the vision to life. Working within the narrow time constraints of a wedding, to string the story together takes great attention and collaboration. Although challenging, it is the most enjoyable and interesting part of the job, from incubating an idea to overcoming logistical challenges to finally sharing it.
HBZVN: You are one of the top wedding photographers. What do weddings mean to you?
GAGAN SHARMA: I love people and the whole notion that a wedding signifies a couple about to start their journey through life together.
HBZVN: Tell us about the top five locations in the world where you’ve had the chance to do incredible, stylish shoots.
GAGAN SHARMA: For sure, Mauritius, Italy, Morocco, France, and Mexico. All these places have been unreal in their natural beauty.
HBZVN: Do you have any dream locations where you would love to do a photoshoot for clients?
GAGAN SHARMA: Plenty. I’m an explorer at heart and love to discover new places. Hawaii, Tanzania, and the tropics of Bali are some of the locations I would love to explore with my creative eye.
HBZVN: What are the most interesting photoshoot ideas that you have always dreamed of realizing?
GAGAN SHARMA: To work with animals and incorporate them into some of my shoots. I love using nature alongside human connections. It’s all connected to this earth and divinity.
Photo: Gagan Sharma; Knotting Bells by Rajesh & Sachin. Planners: KKings Weddings & Events; Anand Vivaah.
HBZVN: Let’s talk about cultural uniqueness. You often shoot Indian couples, who always look beautiful and luxurious. Tell us about the traditional elements that should definitely be included in an Indian photoshoot.
GAGAN SHARMA: I think any Indian or Asian wedding should include family and traditions, as these create a very unique story. Each story is different, and I like creating something unique for each couple every time. It’s hard to say what should be a must, as each tradition varies within the multiple faiths in Asian weddings. For couples trying to incorporate traditional elements in their wedding, it’s always a good idea to get a planner involved. I work with Leela Events, who are experts in stylization and wedding planning.
HBZVN: As a photographer and producer, are you a strict leader?
GAGAN SHARMA: I must say I am blessed to work with like-minded creative individuals. The team is amazing. From a leadership approach, I’m strict in the sense that excellence is what I expect as a minimum, but I’m also conscious that I have to provide an environment where creative potential is not restricted.
HBZVN: If we talk about trends, what are people mostly into now?
GAGAN SHARMA: Editorial photography are very popular right now, which I love and excel at. However, I’ve started to see regal themes, vibrant colors, and big jewelry making a comeback.
HBZVN: Style and fashion are always important in a photoshoot. What style do you personally like the most?
GAGAN SHARMA: I’m a great fan of retro-chic looks, from Indian Cuban to Italian. I love floral and pastels, which are always a great combination.
HBZVN: How can people book you?
GAGAN SHARMA: The best way would be to send an email with details of their event, and I will definitely follow up.
 Photo: Gagan Sharma; Knotting Bells by Rajesh & Sachin. Planners: KKings Weddings & Events; Anand Vivaah.  Photo: Gagan Sharma; Knotting Bells by Rajesh & Sachin. Planners: KKings Weddings & Events; Anand Vivaah.  Photo: Gagan Sharman; Knotting Bells by Rajesh & Sachin. Planners: KKings Weddings & Events; Anand Vivaah.  Photo: Gagan Sharman; Knotting Bells by Rajesh & Sachin. Planners: KKings Weddings & Events; Anand Vivaah.  Photo: Gagan Sharman; Knotting Bells by Rajesh & Sachin. Planners: KKings Weddings & Events; Anand Vivaah.  Photo: Gagan Sharma. Planners: JC Castillo Weddings; & Val Del Olmo. Makeup: Loan-Lulu Nguyen. Bridal wear: Falguni Shane Peacock India.  Photo: Gagan Sharma. Film: Signature Media.  Photo: Gagan Sharma. Planner: Leela Events.  Photo: Gagan Sharma. Planners: JC Castillo Weddings; & Val Del Olmo. Makeup: Loan-Lulu Nguyen. Bridal wear: Falguni Shane Peacock India.  Photo: Gagan Sharma. Planner: iRock Weddings. Makeup: Mevi.  Photo: Gagan Sharma. Planner: iRock Weddings. Makeup: Mevi.  Photo: Gagan Sharma. Film: Signature Media.  Film: Signature Media.  Planner: Leela Events. Film: Story & Motion.  Planner: Leela Events. Film: Story & Motion.  Planner: Leela Events. Film: Story & Motion.  Photo: Gagan Sharma. Planner: Anand Vivaah.  Photo: Gagan Sharma. Planner: Hermes Event Planners. |
Photography: – Gagan Sharma @photographybygagan.
– Knotting Bells by Rajesh & Sachin @knottingbells.
Planners: – KKings Weddings & Events @kkingsevents.
– Anand Vivaah @anandvivaah.
– JC Castillo Weddings @jccastilloweddings.
– Val Del Olmo @valdelolmo.wp.
– Leela Events @Leela.Events.
– iRock Weddings @irockweddings.
– Hermes Event Planners @@hermeseventplanners.
Makeup: – Loan-Lulu Nguyen @dolledupbylulu.
– Mevi @glambymevi.
Film: – Signature Media @signaturemedia.
– Story & Motion @storyandmotion.
Harper’s Bazaar Việt Nam
